Abstract

This thesis explores the potential of Roman coin data, particularly that
recorded by the PAS, as a tool for understanding the development of the
Roman province of Britannia. Using a range of Applied Numismatic
techniques, it surveys patterns of coin loss to evaluate when, where, by
whom and for what purpose Roman coins were employed. In doing so, it
provides an insight not only into the economy of Roman Britain, but also a
range of themes such as regionality and Romanisation. Five case-studies
involve analysis of the coin data at a national or regional level. The first,
outlined in Chapter 4, explores mean values for coin loss and presents a
new method for investigating denominational variation. This provides
fundamental context for all research undertaken in this thesis. It is followed
by four chapters that offer a snapshot of patterns of coin loss at key
moments during the history of Roman Britain. These include analyses of
Republican and Claudian issues, Carausian and Allectan coinage, and mid
fourth to early fifth century coinage. Two further case studies focus on
patterns of coin loss at a regional and site-specific level. Chapter 9
integrates site find and hoard evidence from the Isle of Wight, in order to
investigate its development within a provincial context. The usefulness of
coin assemblages for identifying settlement foci and tracing their
chronologies is also assessed. Chapter 10 explores the character and date
of a votive deposit from Piercebridge, County Durham. It compares and
contrasts the coin profile for the site with other votive assemblages from
Roman Britain, in order to test the theory that particular types of site exhibit
particular types of coin loss. The treatment of coins is also assessed as are
non-numismatic finds’ data. Chapter 11 summarises the conclusions
reached in individual chapters and explores how they lead to an enhanced
understanding of Roman Britain. Recommendations for further work are also
made.

Type:

Thesis
(Doctoral)

Title:

Rethinking Roman Britain: an applied numismatic analysis of the Roman coin data recorded by the Portable Antiquities Scheme